Laundry basket device

ABSTRACT

A laundry basket device is disclosed. Specifically, the present invention is a combination laundry basket and laundry bag. The device consists of a standard basket that allows a bag portion to attach thereto, preferably by snap-on rim member. The bag, attached to either the inner or outer rim of the basket, extends vertically from the basket and includes drawstrings that function to securely close the bag, completely covering the contents of the basket. Thus, the device is easy to lift, allows the user to fit more articles of clothing into the basket than is provided in the prior art, and even allows for effective cleaning of the removable bag portion. Finally, the device may include both removably attachable wheels, functioning to further facilitate transport of the entire device, as well as compartments for the storing and transportation of cleaning related items.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This Application is a continuance of the Application entitled “Laundry Basket Device,” filed by the present Applicants on Mar. 22, 1999, with Ser. No. 09/274,088, Art Unit 3727, before Examiner Castellano.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention is a laundry basket device. Specifically, the present invention is a combination laundry basket and laundry bag. The device consists of a standard basket that allows a bag portion to attach thereto, preferably by snap-on rim member. The bag, attached to either the inner or outer rim of the basket, extends vertically from the basket and includes drawstrings that function to securely close the bag, completely covering the contents of the basket. Thus, the device is easy to lift, allows the user to fit more articles of clothing into the basket than is provided in the prior art, and even allows for effective cleaning of the removable bag portion. Finally, the device may include both removably attachable wheels, functioning to further facilitate transport of the entire device, as well as compartments for the storing and transportation of cleaning related items.

[0003] 1. Description of the Prior Art

[0004] Numerous innovations for basket devices have been provided in the prior art that are described as follows. Even though these innovations may be suitable for the specific individual purposes to which they address, they differ from the present invention as hereinafter contrasted. The following is a summary of those prior art patents most relevant to the invention at hand, as well a description outlining the differences between the features of the present invention and those of the prior art.

[0005] In U.S. Pat. No. 5,779,084, titled Laundry Receptacle With Flexible Cover, invented by Lehman, described is a laundry receptacle with a flexible cover and handles which comprises a structurally rigid receptacle portion and a flexible covering assembly. The rigid receptacle portion may be of a variety of sizes and shapes. The flexible covering assembly is comprised of a flexible covering material of varying sizes and shapes, which is wound around a cylindrical rod when not in use, and which is unrolled and extended across the open upper end of the rigid laundry receptacle and affixed to a circumferential flange that is itself integrally secured to the open upper end. The cylindrical rod is cooperatively attached to hinges at its opposite ends. The hinges are, in turn, securely affixed to the circumferential flange, so as to allow the cylindrical rod to rotate and the flexible cover to unroll over the open upper end of the rigid laundry receptacle. The flexible covering material may also be secured to the outer circumference of open upper end of the rigid receptacle by a continuous elastomeric band which is circumferentially securely positioned around the flexible material about its outer edge.

[0006] In U.S. Pat. No. 5,678,717, titled Laundry Basket, invented by Hsu, described is a laundry basket for collecting the laundry to be washed, including a base, an upper frame, an upper cover, two substantially C-shaped supporting boards and a shade body. Each corner of the top face of the base is disposed with an arch projection diametrically directed to the center of the base. A top face of the base is disposed with an array of ventilation holes. The edges of the bottom face are disposed with downward extending waved flanges to form multiple legs. The edges of the bottom face of the upper frame are formed with a higher inner wall and two lower middle and outer walls with equal height. Each corner and each side of the inner wall respectively have several corner ribs and restriction ribs outward extending to the space between the middle and outer walls. The corner ribs and restriction ribs have a height equal to that of the inner wall, whereby the left and right sides of the upper frame are respectively formed with two substantially C-shaped receiving channels similar to the C-shaped supporting boards. The shade body is stretched and firmly retained by the supporting boards so as to achieve a better stability and resistance against heavy load. The supporting boards are more firmly associated with the upper frame and the base so as to avoid disassembly of the laundry basket during carriage.

[0007] In U.S. Pat. No. 4,948,077, titled Laundry Buggy, invented by Gonzalez, a laundry buggy is collapsible to a small space, such as that of a large attache case, and which is erectable into a basket assembly with a supporting leg structure. The laundry buggy includes a basket assembly and a leg assembly. The basket assembly comprises a bottom wall, a first end wall pivotally connected to an upper side of the bottom wall adjacent one end thereof, a second end wall pivotally connected to an upper side of the bottom wall adjacent the other end thereof, the end walls being pivotable towards each other and downwardly over the bottom wall to form a collapsed basket assembly and each having side edge, a piece of flexible material being fixed to and between each pair of opposed side edges of the end walls, and forming flexible side walls of the basket assembly and being collapsible to a position underneath the end walls when they are collapsed downwards. The leg assembly comprises first and second U-shaped leg formations each including a first leg that is pivotably connected to a second leg of the other formation and an upper bight-forming bar, first and second U-in-cross-section snap-type clamps fixed respectively to the underside of the bottom wall of the basket assembly adjacent each end thereof for snap-fittingly receiving the bight-forming bar of one of the leg formations for fixing the leg assembly in an upright erect position to the underside of basket assembly.

[0008] In U.S. Pat. No. 5,242,074, titled Clothes Hamper, invented by Conaway, a hamper includes a base container portion, a shroud, and a cover. The base container portion includes a bottom surface and a front wall, a rear wall and opposed side walls extending upwardly from the bottom surface to form an open top defined by a peripheral upper rim. The shroud rests on the rim to strengthen the same and is attached to the side walls. The cover is pivotally attached to the shroud. Vent apertures are provided in recessed arcuate walls positioned beneath the front wall and the rear wall.

[0009] In U.S. Pat. No. 5,690,217, titled Movable Compartmentalized Laundry Storage Unit, invented by Friday, described is a movable laundry storage unit which is generally comprised of a rigid body member having a closed bottom and an open top end and defining a clothing and article storage area. A pair of wheel members are preferably attached to the bottom of the body member and handle member is attached to the back portion of the body member. The storage unit can be provided with one or more dividers for sectioning the storage area into two or more compartments. A cover member is also provided to prevent any stored clothing or articles from falling out of the storage area while the storage unit is in transit.

[0010] In U.S. Pat. No. 5,253,775, titled Combined Hamper and Laundry Bag, invented by Gould, described is a combined hamper and laundry bag which provides a convenient arrangement for separating and maintaining separation of small laundry items from large items prior to washing and throughout the washing and drying cycle. The bag comprises a mesh bag portion having one open end, a latching strip for hanging the bag, and an adhesive backed mounting strip for engaging the latching strip. The openings comprising the mesh bag are of adequate size to allow sufficient water flow. The latching strip is permanently attached to the open end of the bag and is comprised of two strips of reinforced and durable material sewn together at their ends with an opening therebetween. At the ends of the latching strips, keyholes are formed to provide for engagement with the mounting strip. The mounting strip has adhesive on one side for attachment to the inside surface of the clothes hamper. On its other side, the strip has two knobs extending therefrom for engagement with the keyholes. After assembly, the bag is filled with small laundry items and then is removed and placed with the laundry into the washer and dryer thereby maintaining separation.

[0011] As outlined above, the prior art patents that relate to laundry baskets largely entail elements such as: compartmentalized baskets that are suitable for the separation of light and dark wash, baskets including compartments for change, fabric softener, and soap, and laundry transport devices that include wheel assemblies.

[0012] The patent to Lehman represents the closest patent to the present invention. Still, the Lehman invention, although providing a means to cover a basket, is substantially different from the present invention. Specifically, the Lehman device includes a rolled up, window-shade-like retractable cover that is pulled out by the user. The cover hooks to the opposite side of the basket, and recoils back to its original position after use.

[0013] In contrast, only the present invention utilizes a bag attached to the inner rim of a laundry basket, the bag extending vertically from the basket and including drawstrings functioning to securely close the device. Therefore, the cover utilized by the present invention is far more easy to use, functions to allow for more clothing to fit into the basket, and is far more suitable for cleaning than the cover used by Lehman.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] As previously noted, the present invention is a combination laundry basket and laundry bag. The device consists of a standard basket that allows a bag portion to attach thereto, preferably by snap-on rim member. The bag, attached to either the inner or outer rim of the basket, extends vertically from the basket and includes drawstrings that function to securely close the bag, completely covering the contents of the basket. Thus, the device is easy to lift, allows the user to fit more articles of clothing into the basket than is provided in the prior art, and even allows for effective cleaning of the removable bag portion. Finally, the device may include both removably attachable wheels, functioning to further facilitate transport of the entire device, as well as compartments for the storing and transportation of cleaning related items.

[0015] The prior art provides mostly laundry baskets and laundry bags, of a separate construction, which are typically either cumbersome and heavy or limited in the quantity of clothing that can be contained therein. Thus, there is a significant need for the present invention, which provides a unique combination of large capacity, ease of transport and convenience.

[0016] With the foregoing in mind, one feature taught by the present invention is that the device provides for the convenient transport of laundry.

[0017] Another feature of the present invention is that the device provides a means to include larger amounts of clothing in the laundry basket than is regularly achieved, much to the benefit of the user who is able to perform laundry tasks more quickly and conveniently.

[0018] Another feature of the present invention is that the device provides for the covering of personal items of clothing being transported, allowing said items of clothing to be protected from the elements when the device is taken outdoors.

[0019] Another feature of the present invention is that the device provides for the transport of additional laundry-related articles, including but not limited to coins, soap, detergent, bleach, and fabric softener in at least one pocket thereon.

[0020] Still another feature of the present invention is that the bag portion of the apparatus is removable in nature, allowing the user the utmost in versatility.

[0021] Moreover, in addition to the options mentioned above, one mode of manufacture of the present invention may include a wheel assembly that is removably attachable to the device, for enhanced versatility and ease of transport.

[0022] Another feature of the present invention is that the bag portion of the apparatus may itself be machine or hand washed, allowing for such to remain sanitary and maintain a desired appearance.

[0023] An additional feature of the present invention is that the device may include the usage of a retractable handle, functioning to allow the user to affix the handle to an exterior surface of the basket portion for facilitation of transport.

[0024] Another feature of the present invention is that the device is suitable for baskets of a substantially rectangular or substantially cylindrical shape and configuration, allowing for significant versatility of manufacture and production.

[0025] Lastly, it should be noted that the device is suitable for residential, commercial, and industrial use, wherein such facilities as hotels and hospitals may utilize an embodiment of the device adapted for carts and trays for the ease in transport of large baskets or multiple baskets.

[0026] The novel features which are considered characteristic for the invention are set forth in the appended claims. The invention itself, however, both as to its construction and its method of operation, together with additional objects and advantages thereof, will be best understood from the following description of the embodiments when read and understood in connection with accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0027]FIG. 1 is a three-quarter perspective view of the laundry basket device, illustrating the bag member in the open position affixed to and draped over the laundry basket.

[0028]FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the laundry basket device, illustrating the bag member in affixed to and draped over the laundry basket through usage of the snap-on rim member.

[0029]FIG. 2 is a three-quarter perspective view of the laundry basket device, illustrating the bag member in the closed position affixed to and extending generally from the laundry basket, with optional handle and wheel means attached thereto.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0030] Referring to FIG. 1, which is a three-quarter perspective view of the laundry basket device, illustrating the bag member in the open position affixed to and draped over the laundry basket, FIG. 1B, which is a cross-sectional view of the laundry basket device, illustrating the bag member in affixed to and draped over the laundry basket through usage of the snap-on rim member, and FIG. 2, which is a three-quarter perspective view of the laundry basket device, illustrating the bag member in the closed position affixed to and extending generally vertically from the laundry basket:

[0031] A laundry basket device (10) comprises a laundry basket (12), which itself comprises an interior portion and exterior portion. The laundry basket (12), much as in the manner of traditional baskets, further comprises a basket lip member (12A) located at an upper portion thereof. The basket lip member (12A) functions to extend along the periphery of the entirety of the laundry basket (12), to allow for ease in fastening a bag member.

[0032] A generally pliable bag member (14), then, is removably attachable to the basket (12) along the periphery of the basket lip member (12A). The bag member (14) utilizes a fastening means in the form of a snap-on rim (18), to substantially align with the basket lip member (12A) and to removably engage same.

[0033] Importantly, snap-on rim member (18) is a separate piece, preferably constructed of a durable plastic, that engages the entire perimeter of the basket lip member (12A) in order to hold the removable bag (14) securely in place. More specifically, as best illustrated in FIG. 1B, snap-on rim member (18) bears a shape reciprocal to the basket lip member (12A), and allows the lowermost portion of the pliable bag member (14) to wrap around the snap-on rim (18), such that the same can be pushed onto the uppermost portion of the basket (12).

[0034] It is suggested that usage of the snap-on rim member (18) provides the quickest and most convenient means to secure the bag member (14) to the basket (12), as the user need not concern himself or herself with more complicated fasteners that require perfect alignment. Moreover, the usage of this single fastening device is far simpler than multiple fasteners, providing additional benefits relating to the cost of manufacture and ease of production.

[0035] Next, a closing means (16) is located at an upper portion of the bag member. The closing means (16) functions to removably seal the bag member (14) and laundry basket (12), and in the preferred mode is a drawstring assembly as illustrated in FIG. 2. This functions to securely contain a multiplicity of items placed within the laundry basket (12) for facilitated transport of the laundry basket device (10).

[0036] As noted, in the preferred mode, the laundry basket (12) is of a substantially rectangular configuration In other instances, the laundry basket (12) may be of a substantially cylindrical configuration or a substantially square configuration.

[0037] Importantly, in all such instances, the generally pliable bag member (14) may be conveniently removed by the user and washed to remain sanitary and maintain a desired appearance.

[0038] Moreover, for the convenience of the user who is carrying or otherwise transporting the basket device (10), the device (10) may comprise at least one pocket for the transport of laundry-related articles, selected form the group consisting of coins, soap, detergent, bleach, and fabric softener. In such an instance, such compartments may be affixed to the basket (12) along any wall thereof, permanently or removably a part of same.

[0039] In addition, to the benefit of the user seeking to transport larger quantities of clothing, the device (10) may comprise a wheel assembly (22) that is removably attachable to the laundry basket (12). Such wheel assembly (22) functions to facilitate transport of the laundry basket device (10) much in the manner of luggage related wheels, as are known in the art.

[0040] Furthermore, the device (10) may utilize a retractable handle means (20) securely attached to an outer surface of the laundry basket (12). Accordingly, the handle means (20) functions to extend outwardly from the basket (12) and retract inwardly to the basket (12) to provide a convenient and compact construction by which the user can pull or push the basket assembly (10).

[0041] Finally, for increased versatility, the device (10) may be utilized in conjunction with a cart for the ease of transport of substantially heavy-weight baskets (12) during industrial usage thereof.

[0042] With regards to all FIGURES, while the invention has been illustrated and described as embodied, it is not intended to be limited to the details shown, since it will be understood that various omissions, modifications, substitutions and changes in the forms and details of the device illustrated and in its operation can be made by those skilled in the art without departing in any way from the spirit of the invention.

[0043] Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the present invention that others can readily adapt it for various applications without omitting features that, from the standpoint of prior art, constitute essential characteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this invention. What is claimed as new and desired to be protected by Letters Patent is set forth in the appended claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A laundry basket device comprising: A. a substantially rectangular laundry basket comprising an interior portion and exterior portion, the laundry basket further comprising a basket lip member located at an upper portion thereof, the basket lip member functioning to extend along the periphery of the entirety of the laundry basket; B. a generally pliable bag member removably attachable to the basket along the periphery of the basket lip member, through usage of a snap-on rim member which engages basket lip member along the perimeter thereof, functioning to hold the removable bag member securely in place, snap-on rim member bearing a shape reciprocal to the basket lip member, allowing a lowermost portion of the bag member to wrap around the snap-on rim, such that the snap-on rim and bag member can be pushed onto an uppermost portion of the basket; and C. a closing means located at an upper portion of the bag member, the closing means functioning to removably seal the bag member and laundry basket, which functions to securely contain a multiplicity of items placed within the laundry basket for facilitated transport of the laundry basket device.
 2. The laundry basket device as described in claim 1 , wherein the snap-on rim member is constructed of a durable plastic.
 3. The laundry basket device as described in claim 1 , wherein the bag member is able to be washed to remain sanitary and maintain a desired appearance.
 4. The laundry basket device as described in claim 1 , wherein the device utilizes a wheel assembly that is removably attachable to the laundry basket, the wheel assembly functioning to facilitate transport of the laundry basket device.
 5. The laundry basket device as described in claim 1 , wherein the device utilizes a retractable handle means securely attached to an outer surface of the laundry basket, the handle means functioning to extend outwardly from the basket and retract inwardly to the basket to provide a convenient and compact construction.
 6. The laundry basket device as described in claim 1 , wherein the device is utilized in conjunction with a cart for the ease of transport of substantially heavy-weight baskets during industrial usage thereof. 